Gambling is a risky activity where people stake money or other valuable items on the outcome of games that involve chance. It includes online casino games, sports betting and slots.
Benefits of gambling
Some positive benefits of gambling include: entertainment, socialization and improved mood. However, it is important to note that gambling also has many disadvantages, including negative health effects.
Negative impacts of gambling can be structuralized using a conceptual model, where costs and benefits are categorized into three classes: financial, labor and health and well-being. These classes manifest on personal, interpersonal and societal levels.
General impact (recreational gamblers)
General impacts of gambling include negative effects that affect a person’s leisure time, their family life, finances and their relationship with other people. These consequences can be attributed to individual gambling or problem gambling.
Problem gambling impacts are severe consequences that affect a gambler’s family life, their finances and the society/community in which they live. These consequences are accompanied by significant costs, such as social care and bankruptcy costs.
Long-term impact of gambling
Gambling is a risky activity that can have negative impacts on your health and well-being, such as financial problems, depression and relationship issues. If you or someone you know is having problems with gambling, seek help. It can be difficult to find ways to cope with a loved one’s gambling addiction, but it’s vital to strengthen your support network. You may also consider taking over their finances to make sure that they are accountable and not able to access money whenever they want it.